Flight Events
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noted a "high pitched hissing tone" accompanied by the illumination of the airplane's low-voltage light. The situation lasted for a few seconds before the hissing tone subsided and the low-voltage light returned to normal. The pilot stated that he thought there "might" be a problem with the aircraft's engine and elected to return to the airport and land.
The pilot turned the airplane 180 degrees and attempted to land on the opposing runway. After completing the turn, the pilot realigned the airplane on the runway centerline. He stated, "I thought I did reach over and put the landing gear lever in the down position, but I don't remember for sure."
Just before touchdown, the pilot heard what he thought was the sound of the propeller striking the runway. He applied power and initiated a go-around. The pilot then aborted the go-around and "put the gear down" in an attempt to land the airplane on the remaining runway.
Landing and Post-Accident Inspection
The airplane touched down on the runway and the right main landing gear leg collapsed. The airplane made several heading changes before coming to rest in a grassy area northeast of the runway.
A Federal Aviation Administration Inspector from the Flight Standards District Office inspected the airplane after the accident and reported that there was no evidence found to indicate a mechanical failure or malfunction with the airplane prior to the accident.